How to do your A Levels in South Africa

Mar 16, 2023

What are A Levels?

A Levels are the academic qualifications taken by students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They are normally taken by students aged 16–18, after completing their GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education). A Levels are also offered by some schools in South Africa, but they follow a different curriculum.

If you’re thinking of taking A Levels in South Africa, there are a few things you need to know. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about A Levels in South Africa, from what they are and how they work, to how to go about finding a school that offers them.

What do A Levels consist of?

As mentioned above, A Levels are academic qualifications that are taken by students aged 16–18 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, after completing their GCSEs.

A Levels are made up of two parts: AS Levels and A2 Levels. AS Levels are the first part of the A Level and are usually taken at the end of Year 12 (age 16/17). A2 Levels are the second part of the A Level and are usually taken at the end of Year 13 (age 17/18)

To get an A Level, students must pass both the AS and A2 Levels. A Levels are graded on a scale from A* to E, with A* being the highest and E being the lowest.

The A-Level curriculum in South Africa

The South African A Level curriculum differs to the one in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. A Levels in South Africa are offered by the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) Board. The CIE A Level curriculum is made up of six modules that are split into two parts: AS and A2. Students must take four modules at AS Level and two modules at A2 Level.

The CIE A Level curriculum is also divided into four main subject groups: Arts and Humanities, Sciences, Business and Economics, and Social Sciences. Each subject group contains different modules for students to choose from.

Some of the more popular A Level modules in South Africa include:

  • English Language
  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Biology
  • Economics
  • History
  • Geography
  • Languages (including French, German, Spanish and Mandarin).

Entry requirements for A Levels in South Africa

There are no specific subject requirements for A Levels in South Africa, but most schools will require you to have at least a C grade in English and Mathematics.

Assessing A Levels in South Africa

A Levels in South Africa are assessed in several ways, including coursework, exams and practical assessments.

Coursework is usually worth around 20–40% of the final A Level grade, while exams are worth 60–80%. The exact breakdown will vary depending on the modules you take.

Practical assessments are only required for certain modules, such as sciences and languages. Practical assessments usually count for 10–20% of the final A Level grade.

How long does it take to complete A Levels in South Africa?

A Levels in South Africa normally take two years to complete, but some students may be able to finish in one year if they are taking a reduced course load.

Benefits of taking A Levels in South Africa

There are several benefits to taking A Levels in South Africa:

  • A Levels are internationally recognised qualifications that will give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in university.
  • A Levels can be used to apply to universities all over the world, including the UK, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
  • A Levels offer a flexible curriculum that allows you to study a broad range of subjects or focus on a specific area of interest.
  • A Levels in South Africa are taught by experienced teachers who are experts in their field.

Disadvantages of taking A Levels in South Africa

There are a few disadvantages to taking A Levels in South Africa:

  • A Levels in South Africa are more expensive than other qualifications, such as the National Senior Certificate (NSC).
  • A Levels in South Africa can be challenging and you will need to work hard to succeed.
  • A Levels may not be suitable for everyone, and some students may prefer to take a different qualification, such as the NSC.

If you are thinking about taking A Levels in South Africa, it is important to weigh up the pros and cons before making a decision. A Levels can be a great way to prepare for university, but they are not right for everyone. Talk to your parents, teachers and guidance counsellors to get their opinion on whether A Levels are right for you.

Choosing the right A Level subjects

  • There is no ‘right’ combination of A Level subjects to take, but there are a few things you should keep in mind when choosing your modules.
  • Think about your future plans. What are you interested in studying at university? What sort of career do you want to have? Your A Level subjects should help you to progress towards your future goals.
  • Consider your strengths and weaknesses. What subjects do you enjoy? What subjects do you find challenging? Choose A Level modules that will allow you to develop your strengths and improve your weaknesses.
  • Talk to your parents, teachers and guidance counsellors. They can offer advice on which A Level subjects would be best for you.
  • Research the different A Level modules available. Make sure you understand the content of each subject before making a decision. 

Once you have chosen your A Level subjects, it is important to start planning for university. A Levels are just one step on the road to university, and there is a lot to think about before you start your studies.

The Different Types of A Level Exams

A Levels are assessed in several ways, including coursework, exams and practical assessments.

Coursework is usually worth around 20-40% of the final A Level grade, while exams are worth 60-80%. The exact breakdown will vary depending on the modules you take.

Practical assessments are only required for certain modules, such as sciences and languages. Practical assessments usually count for 10-20% of the final A Level grade.

Where to take your A Levels

A Levels are offered by several schools and colleges in South Africa. Some of the most popular A Level providers include:

Stellenbosch Waldorf School

Worcester Gymnasium

Rondebosch Boys’ High School

Bishops Diocesan College.

How much do A Levels cost?

A Levels in South Africa are not cheap and you can expect to pay between R20 000 and R30 000 pe[CdN2] r year. This does not include the cost of textbooks, which can add R2 000 to R3 000 to your costs.

What do you do if you don’t pass your A Levels?

It is important to remember that A Levels are not easy, and it is normal to not get the grades you want on your first attempt.

If you don’t pass your A Levels, there are several options available to you, including:

  • Retaking your A Levels
  • Taking a different qualification, such as the National Senior Certificate (NSC) or the Higher Certificate in Education (HCE)
  • Applying to university through the Alternative Admission Pathways (AAP)
  • Studying at a private college.

Speak to your parents, teachers and guidance counsellors to get advice on what to do if you don’t pass your A Levels. They will be able to help you decide on the best course of action for your future.

A Levels are a great way to prepare for university but they are not right for everyone. Talk to your parents, educators and guidance counsellors to get their opinion on whether A Levels are right for you.

If you are thinking about taking A Levels in South Africa, it is important to weigh up the pros and cons before making a decision.